News

2002-05-03 14:49:02.0

ILLINOIS RAILROAD INSPECTOR GETS FISTFUL OF DOLLARS

A railroad track inspector from Dallas City, Ill., uncovered a $10,000 Scratchers prize while working in Wyaconda. Larry Gilpin, 51, said he had to wait on a group of workers to get done with their work, so he decided to drive to a convenience store for a "pop and a snack." While at H & S Store in Wyaconda, Gilpin purchased two $1 "Fistful of Dollars" Scratchers tickets, and the second ticket he scratched off turned out to be worth $10,000.
"I couldn’t hardly believe my eyes," Gilpin told Lottery officials when he claimed his prize today. Gilpin works for the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad.
Gilpin and his wife, Marsha, said they are building a new house, and the money will be used pay for some of those expenses.
"Fistful of Dollars" is the 409th Scratchers game offered by the Missouri Lottery. The $1 game officially went on sale April 27.